Rhino X1808, X2009, X2411 Operators Manual

Introduction

Thank you for choosing Rhino. We wish you many years of safe and satisfied use of your machine.

Safety Aspects

This manual is a crucial part of your machine. Reading it will help you and others avoid personal injury or damage to the machine. Only competent and skilled persons who have fully read and understood this manual are allowed to operate this machine. The manual contains special messages highlighting safety concerns, potential machine damage, and operating/servicing information. Please read carefully to avoid injury and damage. Contact your local dealer if you have any questions.

The operator is solely responsible for the safe use and maintenance of the machine. Operation and adjustments must only be performed by a competent and skilled person. Do not allow third parties to adjust or modify the machine.

Intended Use

This machine is designed for cutting grass and must be used with a suitable tractor (refer to "Product Specifications") and driven by the tractor's PTO. Any other use is strictly prohibited. Rhino will not be held responsible for any loss or damage caused by misuse of the machine.

Warranty

The machine is warranted for 12 months against faulty workmanship or parts. No warranty is provided if the machine is used as a hire machine. Warranty covers parts only, and all parts must be returned to the manufacturer for consideration. Replacement parts will be supplied on a chargeable basis until warranty is accepted.

Tractor Requirements

Attaching the machine affects tractor stability and maneuverability. Consult your tractor manual for weight and towing limitations. Ensure the tractor is suitable for the machine. Recommended Horse Power requirements are in the "Product Specification" section. Using excessive power can affect cut quality and damage the machine. Tractors not suitable for the operation may sustain damage due to weight and power requirements. Observe the machine's weight and compare it with your tractor's lifting capacity. The machine is designed to be trailed and can be adjusted by manual or hydraulic top link. A road light kit requires a 12V 7-pin socket.

Safety

This manual highlights potential safety hazards with CAUTION and the safety-alert symbol ⚠️. DANGER identifies the most serious hazards.

Hazards associated with operating Grass Cutting Machinery

• Shear Hazard: Created by edges of two objects moving towards each other.
• Crush Hazard: Bystanders can be injured when the machine is lowered. Winged machines have crush points around hinges. Use transport locking bars when not in use.
• Rotating Blade Hazard: Risk of injury if hands or feet are placed under the machine when raised and blades are in motion.
• Pinch Hazard: Created when two objects move together, common in power transmission devices. Ensure all guarding is present.
• Wrap Hazard: Exposed rotating components can catch loose clothing or hair. Ensure all guarding is present.
• Free-wheeling parts Hazard: Components continue to rotate after power is shut off. Do not clean or adjust before components have stopped. Never raise the machine while blades are rotating.
• Thrown objects Hazard: Foreign objects can be expelled at high speed. Ensure bystanders are clear. Never operate with decks raised.
• Hydraulic Hazard: Hydraulic systems store energy. Careless servicing can cause injury. High-pressure oil can pierce skin. Ensure pump is off, equipment is lowered, and load pressure is off the system before servicing.
• Slips, Trips and Falls Hazard: Reduce risk by good judgment and housekeeping.
• Noise Hazard: Recommended to wear hearing protection as noise levels can reach 97 dBA.

Operating Safely

Operate at the PTO rate specified in Product Specifications. Always operate on level ground when connecting/disconnecting. Never allow anyone to stand between the tractor and the machine. Start the tractor PTO at a low RPM and build up to operating speed. Never wear jewelry or loose clothing that could get caught in moving parts. Always wear approved safety garments, including non-slip shoes, ear muffs, goggles, and gauntlets. Wear reflective clothing if operating near public highways. Consult your retailer or local authority for safety provisions and regulations. ALWAYS DISENGAGE PTO, SWITCH OFF THE TRACTOR ENGINE, AND ENGAGE THE PARKING BRAKE BEFORE MAKING ADJUSTMENTS.

Workstation

The operator must remain seated while working. If wings need adjustment, do not leave the tractor. Ensure PTO is off and parking brake is applied before leaving the tractor or performing maintenance. NEVER OPERATE THE HYDRAULICS WITH THE TRACTOR SWITCHED OFF.

Regulations for use of the transmission

Transmission is protected by PTO shafts and bolt down covers. Ensure all guarding is efficient and in good condition. Failure to protect the transmission can be fatal as it can catch on body parts or clothing. Ensure retaining chains are anchored on PTO shafts. Keep spline grooves clean and greased. Connect PTO shaft according to the tractor manufacturer's manual.

PTO Shaft Safety

Maximum PTO input is specified in Product Specifications. If replacing the PTO shaft, ensure it is of the same power category and characteristics. The tractor PTO shaft length may need alteration. Ensure a minimum 1/3 engagement of the PTO shaft. If the PTO shaft is too short, it must be replaced. If too long, shorten it by following the provided instructions, ensuring correct alignment and greasing.

Driving Safely on Public Roads

Check local Highway Code regulations. Ensure reflectors, hazard flashers, and projecting load indicators are installed and efficient. Bystanders must not lean on or climb onto the machine during transport or work. Do not allow bystanders to ride on the machine. Maximum transport speed is limited to 25-30 km/h depending on the model.

Trailed Machines only: The shaft must not reach the end of the tube or project. Ensure the PTO does not bottom when turning.

General safety instructions

1. Do not operate while tired or under the influence of alcohol or intoxicants.
2. Before mowing, ensure the area is clear of people or animals.
3. Before adjusting, disconnect PTO, turn off tractor engine, apply handbrake, and wait for parts to stop.
4. Read all safety requirements and the operator's manual.
5. If unsure how to use the machine, contact the manufacturer or dealer.

Inspections before Use

• Always disengage PTO, switch off tractor engine, and engage parking brake before adjustments.
• Check oil level in all gearboxes.
• Grease all lubrication points.
• Check parts for wear.
• Check blade mounting bolts are tight.
• Ensure gearbox shaft nuts are tight and retained by split pins.
• Check tightness of all nuts, bolts, and pins.
• Ensure safety guards and flaps are in place. Replace worn or missing ones immediately.
• Wash down the machine after mowing, especially if storing for a long period.

Starting Regulations

• Always check that dangerous conditions have been eliminated before use.
• Ensure all guarding is present and the operator is aware of operations.
• Ensure PTO shaft yoke ends are locked onto spline shafts. An unlocked shaft can cause damage and injury.

Product Identification

Machine Serial Numbers

Model and serial numbers are on the Serial Plate. Record your machine details below:

Model No: ____________________

Serial No: ____________________

Date of Purchase: ____________________

Dealer Name: ____________________

Dealer Telephone: ____________________

Product Specifications

The machine is propelled by a 6 spline 1-3/8” PTO shaft.

Machine Safety Labels

Safety labels are placed on the machine to highlight potential hazards. DANGER, WARNING, and CAUTION are used with the safety alert symbol ⚠️. DANGER identifies the most serious hazards.

Labels include:

• To prevent Serious Injury or Death: Avoid unsafe operation, read manual.
• Rotating blade hazard.
• PTO entanglement hazard - keep clear of PTO drives.
• High oil pressure hazard.
• ATTENTION!! CHECK TIGHTNESS OF TRANSMISSION BOLTS AT EVERY SERVICE.
• ATTENTION! Do not engage drive while in transport position.
• Grease points.
• Maximum PTO input (540 RPM / 1000 RPM).
• CHECK WHEEL NUTS DAILY.
• TYRE PRESSURE: 2 BAR / 30 PSI.
• Moving parts.
• Fold PTO stand down before removing transport pin, otherwise PTO shaft will be damaged!
• IMPORTANT: P.T.O. SHAFT JOURNALS 'A' & 'B' MUST BE ALIGNED AT 90° WHEN P.T.O. SHAFTS ARE BEING FITTED. CHECK BLADE TIMING IS CORRECT.

Key to Main Parts

Diagrams illustrate the main components of the machine:

• 1 Body
• 2 Drivetrain cover
• 3 Drawbar
• 4 PTO shaft
• 5 Safety chain
• 6 Rear roller
• 7 Hitch
• 8 Roller height adjuster rod
• 9 Roller height indicator
• 10 Wheel
• 11 Blade
• 12 Front roller
• 13 Axle
• 14 Rubber deflector
• 15 Lighting kit
• 16 Hydraulic Ram
• 17 Wing
• 18 PTO shaft stand
• 19 Drawbar bush

Blade Rotation

Diagrams show blade rotation viewed from the underside for X1808, X2009, and X2411 models.

Blade system

The blade assembly consists of:

• 1 Blade mount
• 2 Gearbox output shaft
• 3 Gearbox split pin
• 4 Blade back
• 5 Blade back bolt
• 6 Swinging blade lock
• 7 Blade pivot bolt
• 8 Blade pivot bush
• 9 Blade

Drive-line gearboxes

Illustrations show the Primary gearbox and Rotor gearbox, indicating oil filler and oil level plugs.

Operating the Machine

Attaching machine to the Tractor

ALWAYS OPERATE ON LEVEL GROUND WHEN HITCHING/UNHITCHING. NEVER ALLOW ANYONE TO STAND BETWEEN THE TRACTOR AND THE MACHINE.

Trailed Models

1. Adjust the tractor hitch pin to be approximately 400 mm (16") from the end of the tractor PTO shaft.
2. Adjust the machine hitch eye to suit the tractor drawbar height, ensuring height adjusting bolts are positioned correctly on the adjusting bracket.
3. Connect the machine to the tractor, ensuring no one is between them.
4. Check PTO shaft length and connect it. Ensure PTO check chains are anchored to prevent PTO guarding rotation.
5. Connect hydraulic hoses to appropriate connections (selected models).

Transport Position

• Before raising the machine, wait until transmission and blades are still. It is recommended to disconnect the PTO shaft during transport.
• Check machine is hitched and tractor parking brake is applied.
• Ensure moving parts are still before transforming to transport position.
• During transport or when raised, ensure the machine is at least 250mm above the ground.

Transport Position (Winged models only)

Transport locking bars, transport pin, and axle ram stopper should be in place during transport to relieve pressure from the hydraulic system. Failure to use safety equipment can cause mechanical and physical damage. Transport Speed of Trailed models should not exceed 25 km/h.

Operating the Machine/Mowing

Never place limbs under the machine while rotors are turning. Rotors can remain turning for up to 1 minute after disengaging PTO. Do not exceed the specified PTO input rate. Always operate on level ground when connecting/disconnecting. Start the tractor PTO at a low RPM and build up to operating speed.

1. Hitch the machine as previously outlined. Ensure bystanders are clear.
2. Locate the Parking Jack (Trailed models only).
3. Ensure the PTO stand is flipped down (Trailed models only).
4. Check PTO shaft is fully engaged on tractor PTO splines.
5. Raise the machine by hydraulic control (Trailed models only).
6. Flip back axle and drawbar ram stoppers (Trailed models only).
7. Lower the machine by hydraulic control or tractor linkage controls.
8. Relocate Wing Transport Locking Bars and lower wings by hydraulic control (Winged mowers only). Ensure hydraulic ram is fully closed.
9. Start up the tractor PTO at a low RPM.
10. Build up to operating speed, select a suitable forward gear, and proceed to cut grass.

Top Link position (flotation restrictor)

To set top links for mowing, lower wings on level ground. Adjust the top link so the pin (1) is in the middle of the slot (2). Lock by tightening the lock nut (3). Top links limit wing lift and prevent damage to PTO shafts and gearboxes.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential for good working order. Only competent and skilled persons who have read and understood this manual should perform maintenance. Replace worn parts with genuine spare parts. All maintenance must be carried out on firm, level ground. Disconnect the machine from the tractor before cleaning, lubricating, or servicing. Ensure any supports used are capable of securely supporting the machine.

In an emergency, switch off the tractor engine, remove the key, engage the parking brake, and disengage the PTO. To clear blockages, follow safety steps and ensure no ropes, twines, or wires are wrapped around rotors.

Machine storage

Store the machine in a dry environment. Wash thoroughly, especially underneath, and remove all grass and debris before storage. Lubricate all pivot points with EP2 grease. Check for oil leaks and fix them. Paint any damaged painted or galvanized surfaces.

PTO Shaft Maintenance

• Guard Removal and Yoke End Greasing: Prise back locking tabs, pull back PTO guard, grease points, push guard into position, tie check chain, click into place.
• PTO Greasing Intervals: Refer to the schedule for greasing points and intervals (25h, 40h, 80h, 400h).
• Shearbolt Replacement: Slide yoke shield back, drive out sheared bolt, align holes and install new shear bolt, slide yoke shield into place. Always fit PTO shaft with the shearbolt/slip-clutch end connected to the machine as directed on the PTO guarding.

Transmission Bolts

Check nuts and bolts in the transmission (couplings, drives, PTO shafts, gearboxes) for tightness after mowing at specified intervals (1st 50 Acres, 1st 100 Acres, 1st 250 Acres, and every 250 acres thereafter).

Roller

Check the condition of the roller end (stub axle) at the end of each season. The roller shaft must rotate freely without excessive play. Adjust bearing tightness if necessary.

Replacement of wear parts

Blades, blade backs, blade bushing, bolts, and nuts must be checked regularly for wear. Visually check blade assemblies every 40 hours of operation. Replace damaged or worn parts immediately to prevent breakages and injuries. Sharpen or replace blunt blades for a quality cut and to avoid excessive power use.

If equipped with wheels, check wheel nuts daily. Maintain pneumatic tyre pressure at 2 Bar. Check solid wheels for wear and damage.

ENSURE BLADE ROTATION AND TIMING IS CORRECT AFTER SERVICING TRANSMISSION.

Subassemblies and parts can weigh up to 100 kg. Support them adequately before detaching.

Clearing out a blockage

Always wear appropriate PPE. If blades become blocked:

1. Set machine to transport position.
2. Park tractor on level ground, switch off engine, remove key, apply handbrake, disconnect PTO shaft.
3. Use a pressure washer to clear material from blades. If not available, use hands, being mindful of potential wires wrapped around rotors.

Wing shafts alignment

Ensure wing PTO shaft yokes are correctly aligned after servicing the transmission. Incorrect fitting can cause damage when wings are raised into transport position.

Troubleshooting

Lubrication schedule

Use EP2 type grease or equivalent. Use oil conforming to 85W/140 standards.

Notes

Notes section for additional information.